How To Tell The Difference Between a Class I and Class II Hitch

Updated 05/29/2019 | Published 05/26/2019

Question:

I purchased a used truck with a 1 1/4 hitch receiver. How can I tell if it a class 1 or class 2 hitch.

asked by: Tom J

Helpful Expert Reply:

Since both a Class I and Class II hitch have a 1-1/4" receiver the only way to tell which class you have is the tongue weight capacity. A Class I hitch will top out at 200 pounds tongue weight capacity and 2,000 pounds gross trailer weight capacity. The weight capacity should be on a sticker on the hitch.

Another way to tell is some Class I hitches like part # 24847 just as an example, are designed with a welded stop tab inside of the hitch that prevents the hitch from accepting Class II accessories. Draw-Tite used the tab so customers will not exceed the weight rating of the hitch with accessories meant for a Class II hitch. However, if the hitch is a Curt or any other brand it may not have the tab.

If you tell me the year make and model of the truck I may be able to get a better idea of what you have.

expert reply by: Heather A